The USA threatens new sanctions against Russian oil: what will happen to the 'shadow fleet'

US Plans for Sanctions Against Russia

According to ХВИЛЯ: The USA plans a new package of sanctions against Russia's energy sector in the event that Vladimir Putin rejects a peace agreement with Ukraine. These sanctions could be announced this week and will target the 'shadow fleet' vessels that transport Russian oil. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bencs discussed these plans with European ambassadors, while the final decision on sanctions remains with US President Donald Trump.

State of Russia's Energy Sector

It is worth noting that the Russian 'shadow fleet' consists of about 940 vessels, which is 45% more than a year ago. At the same time, 17% of global oil tankers are involved in transporting Russian oil, and the average age of the 'shadow fleet' vessels is about 20 years. The European Union is also planning to include 568 vessels on the blacklist as part of the 19th sanctions package.

Scott Bencs: 'President Trump is the President of Peace, and I have confirmed that under his leadership, America will continue to prioritize ending the war in Ukraine.'

In response to potential sanctions, Dmitry Peskov noted: 'It is clear that any sanctions are harmful to the process of restoring relations.' Sergey Ryabkov, in turn, expressed confidence: 'I am almost sure that we are on the verge of resolving this terrible crisis. We are ready for an agreement if it takes the words of President Trump.'

Among the contentious issues that remain in the context of peace negotiations are:

• the future status of territories in eastern Ukraine
• the use of frozen assets of the Russian central bank
• the management of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

These issues could influence the subsequent actions of the USA and its partners regarding sanctions against Russia.

The planned US sanctions could become an important tool for influence on Russia in the context of peace negotiations. The strategic importance of the energy sector for the Russian economy makes it vulnerable to external pressures. At the same time, Russia's position in the negotiations remains unpredictable, and changes in the status of territories could significantly impact the course of events in the region.